The InVisionary

September is a month of celebration for all at InVision, as it is home to Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week (September 7-13). Established to honor the crucial workers “who provide the services and supports millions of people with disabilities depend on to live and fully participate in their communities,” DSP Recognition Week is commemorated annually during the second week of September, dating back to 2008.
 

The Importance of DSP Recognition Week

The role of DSPs at InVision – and human services organizations worldwide – may not always be easy; but it is always important. As the front-line of supports and services, DSPs provide necessary supports to people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities in their pursuit of lives that are meaningful to them.
 
At InVision, we understand the vitality of our DSPs, and the complexity of the work they do for our organization. Through our Community Supports, Employment Supports, and Residential Programs, InVision DSPs empower the people we support to lead independent lives in their own homes, discover and maintain employment, experience their local communities, and explore hobbies and activities that are interesting to them.
 
Amid ongoing staffing shortages in the role of DSPs, many spend significant time away from home, and their loved ones, to pick up overtime to fill gaps in the workforce. These shortages stem largely from insufficient reimbursement rates among the Medicaid program, hindering providers from offering competitive and sustainable hourly wages.
 
DSPs wear many hats and juggle many tasks and to-dos. Most importantly, they act as advocates for the people we serve to ensure all needs are met with the highest quality of care. And while these supports, extensive job duties, and advocacy efforts come to mind when we discuss DSPs, it is important to remember that there is so much more to our support staff outside of the work they do at InVision.
 

Get Involved in DSP Recognition Week 2025

Looking for ideas to celebrate the DSPs in your lives? You can get involved in several ways – here’s a list of great methods to start:
 

• Express your gratitude. Whether it be a verbal, “thank you,” a kind virtual message, or a hand-written card, a heart-felt acknowledgment for the hard work and dedication of DSPs goes a long way.
• Host and attend events. From small gatherings to attending organizational events, there are many opportunities to show up for DSPs.
• Share the stories and voices of DSPs on social media. Consider sharing pictures, video clips, and stories highlighting the positive impact of DSPs.
• Advocate. Reach out to your representatives in support of DSP wages and recognition. Visit ANCOR’s DSP Workforce amplifier page for more information and actions!

Happy DSP Recognition Week to all the DSPs out there! We are excited to honor InVision’s DSPs with new and exciting events and initiatives this year. During September and beyond, your efforts are heard, valued, and seen; and so very worthy of recognition.